5 holistic therapies used by Olympians

As the world tunes in to the 2024 Paris Olympics, athletes are not only mesmerising us with their incredible performances and record-breaking feats but also with their innovative approaches to recovery and wellness. Beyond the thrill of competition, there's a growing fascination with the holistic therapies that athletes are embracing to maintain peak physical condition. One example is Italy's Nicolo Martinenghi, who, upon winning gold in the men's 100m breaststroke, revealed dark red circles on his back - marks of cupping therapy. This ancient practice, along with several others, is becoming a cornerstone of athletes' recovery routines.

Cupping therapy

Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which is believed to relieve muscle tension and promote blood flow. The enhanced circulation and reduction in muscle tightness are particularly beneficial for athletes undergoing rigorous training and competition schedules. Michael Phelps brought this 3,000-year-old therapy to the mainstream during the Rio 2016 Olympics, and its popularity has continued to grow since then. 

But, cupping is just one of the many holistic therapies gaining traction among professional athletes. Here are four more therapies that Olympians are utilising.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a prominent choice among athletes for pain relief and recovery. An ancient Chinese practice involving the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, this therapy is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and enhance energy flow.

Numerous Olympians have reported reduced muscle soreness and improved flexibility, attributing their quick recovery between events to regular acupuncture sessions. It’s believed that Eileen Gu, who won a gold medal for China in the big air freestyle skiing event at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, regularly utilised acupuncture as part of her treatment regime.

Chiropractic care

Chiropractic care, which focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, is widely adopted by athletes, particularly those in high-impact sports. Chiropractic adjustments help maintain spinal alignment, enhance mobility, and prevent injuries. 

One famous chiropractic fan is Jamaica’s legendary sprinter, Usain Bolt. As a young man, Bolt suffered from scoliosis, which, in the early part of his career, often led to injuries. Instead of a brace or surgery to correct the curvature of his spine, Bolt turned to chiropractic treatments, which he’s credited for his record-breaking performances.

Mindfulness

The psychological demands of competing at the Olympic level are immense, prompting many athletes to incorporate meditation and mindfulness practices into their routines. Techniques such as guided meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and visualisation are employed to manage stress, improve focus, and maintain mental clarity. The calming effects of these practices help athletes perform under pressure and recover mentally after intense competitions.

Team USA’s gymnastics star Simone Biles has openly discussed her struggles with mental health and how mindfulness has played a crucial role in her training and competition. She incorporates breathing exercises and meditation to manage stress and maintain a sense of calm under pressure.

Team GB’s Tom Daley has also become well-known not only for his diving achievements but also for his mindfulness practices. He claims that meditation helps reduce anxiety and increase focus, saying it’s comforting to have time for himself to let thoughts pass like clouds, knowing there is always a clear sky above.

Yoga

Yoga, with its combination of physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, is another popular complementary practice. Athletes utilise yoga to improve flexibility, balance, and core strength, all crucial components of athletic performance. Yoga sessions also serve as a form of active recovery, helping to reduce muscle stiffness and promote relaxation.

Canadian gymnast Ellie Black has incorporated yoga into her routine to enhance her performance and prevent injuries. She claims that yoga helps her with flexibility, balance, and relaxation, making it an integral part of her training and recovery process.

If you’re ready to take your sporting performance to the next level or are simply intrigued to try these therapies for yourself, you can find a holistic therapist near you today.